In high school, she had strong, supportive teachers who made her feel capable of success, and she began to think she could serve as that same encouragement for others by becoming a science teacher. She attended Shaw University, majoring in biology education with a minor in chemistry, but ultimately began her career in the region’s science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) focused industry.
“I was really good at it. I earned my Master of Science degree in clinical research from Campbell University during those years,” she said. But… “I hated it. I couldn’t ignore the feeling in my gut that kept telling me, ‘You’re supposed to teach.’”
So she listened. Jamila took a 50% salary cut to become a 7th-grade science teacher at a high-poverty school and began to ignite in students a love of learning she’d been cultivating since she was a kid. There, she arranged college campus visits for her students and encouraged them to participate in extracurricular STEM studies and school competitions. Her students didn’t have to win those competitions, but “they did have to work very hard.” And a lot of times, they brought home medals because their hard work paid off.
Jamila continued teaching science when she relocated to Atlanta from Durham, North Carolina, and began participating in leadership summits to grow her skills.
“I was hesitant about leadership at first,” she recalls, “because I wanted to be in the classroom. Then, an opportunity came up where I could serve as both a science teacher and a department dean. I was able to perfect my coaching skills by applying them directly in the classroom. It was the best of both worlds.”
The experience showed her what was possible for her career, including the ability to be both a mom and a principal. Principal Bowser believes parents play a critical role in their child’s education, and “when kids see their parents are invested and positively partnered with the school, they’re invested and can flourish.” She loves connecting with parents and providing them with the tools they need to support their children.
Last year, National Heritage Academies (NHA) promoted Principal Jamila Bowser as principal of Johnston Charter Academy after serving seven years in the Dean role at a sister school in Durham. Today, Principal Bowser’s two decades of experience empower the students, teachers, and staff at Johnston Charter to become their best selves.
“It’s what I received as a student. I want to be that difference for others – not just encouraging their academics, but believing in them when they don’t believe in themselves.”
Quick Facts
- In addition to her Bachelor’s from Shaw University and Master’s from Campbell University, Principal Bowser holds an educational leadership and administration certification from Appalachian State University.
- You may be surprised to know Principal Bowser was a violinist for six years and loves the “Back to the Future” movies.
- Several of her favorite things are associated with the color orange! Season: Fall. Holiday: Thanksgiving. Candy: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. And her favorite color? Tangerine!
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About Johnston Charter Academy
Johnston Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Clayton, North Carolina, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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